Lung Cancer

Our Approach

Franciscan Health, our cross-specialty collaboration makes personalized treatment plans easy and accessible. Our team of experts in pulmonology, medical oncology, cardiothoracic surgery, pathology, and radiology are all in one convenient location, working in tandem with patients and their families toward the best possible outcome.

What is lung cancer?

Lung cancer is cancer that starts in the cells that make up the lungs. There are two primary types of lung cancer, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Identifying the type of lung cancer helps in determining the best approach to treatment. About 85% to 90% of lung cancer diagnoses are categorized as non-small cell lung cancer; there are three subcategories of NSCLC.

• Adenocarcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma (epidermoid carcinoma)
• Large cell carcinoma

Only about 10% to 15% of lung cancer diagnoses are categorized as small cell lung cancer. It often metastasizes at a faster pace and earlier stage.

What are the symptoms of lung cancer?

Talk to your Franciscan Health physician if you’re experiencing common lung cancer symptoms such as:

• Persistent, worsening cough that will not go away
• Spitting up small amounts of blood
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Changes in the voice or being hoarse
• Recurrent pneumonia or bronchitis
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite

Advanced technology for lung cancer biopsy and diagnosis

Franciscan Health Cancer Center Indianapolis is the first hospital in Indiana to deploy the Auris Health Monarch™ robotic platform. This robotic technology is more precise and provides improved reach, vision and control during bronchoscopic procedures, giving the ability to access the smallest nodules in the hardest to reach areas for testing. This allows for earlier detection of lung cancer in hopes of better treatment options and outcomes for patients.